News Summary
Pickens County experienced severe thunderstorms that caused winds of up to 60 mph and pea-sized hail. The National Weather Service issued warnings while residents prepared for potential damage and safety concerns due to lightning. Communities like Pickens, Liberty, and Six Mile were advised to seek shelter. As storm conditions persisted, all were reminded to stay alert and prioritize safety during these volatile weather events.
Severe Thunderstorms Sweep Through Pickens County
Oh boy, Pickens County, it looks like Mother Nature decided to show off her wild side this Thursday! Residents were caught in a **thrilling display of severe thunderstorms** that brought winds gusting up to a whopping 60 mph and even **pea-sized hail** that had everyone looking up to the skies and wondering, “What on Earth is happening?”
Storm Warning Alerts Residents
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Greenville-Spartanburg, SC, wasted no time sounding the alarm. At precisely 4:53 p.m., a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for the area, lasting until 5:15 p.m.. Those times were important, as residents needed to be prepared. As a line of thunderstorms raged through, stretching from just 7 miles west of Easley all the way to near Pickens, the storms were making their slow approach at a mere 5 mph. While 5 mph might sound leisurely for a stroll, it meant that the storm’s ominous clouds were taking their sweet time to unleash their fury.
What to Expect During the Storm
So what exactly was in store for the folks of Pickens County? Well, brace yourselves! The forecast warned of **quarter-sized hail**, which measures about 1 inch in diameter, along with those fierce winds. While many of us had our fingers crossed for a fun afternoon thunderstorm, it became clear that there could be some **minor damage** to vehicles from the hail. Winds strong enough to send tree branches down and rattle power lines also had residents taking those precautions seriously.
The storm didn’t choose favorites either; areas like Pickens, Liberty, Norris, Six Mile, Nine Times, and the picturesque Keowee Toxaway State Park were in the storm’s path. For those out and about, the NWS strongly advised seeking shelter in a sturdy building, steering clear of windows—a serious reminder of how dangerous storms can be, especially with continuous cloud-to-ground lightning.
Lightning: A Major Concern
Speaking of lightning, it’s one of **nature’s most dangerous aspects**. With approximately 25 million strikes hitting the U.S. each year, and leading to around 20 fatalities, it’s no wonder that safety became the top priority as the storm loomed close. The likelihood of lightning increases dramatically as thunderstorms near, peaking when they are directly overhead. If you can’t find a way inside, it’s essential to know a few safe practices just in case you get caught in the storm.
Stay Informed and Safe
As the evening wore on, many residents were likely reflecting on the previous night’s storm warnings. Just a day earlier at 8:09 p.m., the NWS had put out alerts for strong thunderstorms hitting Greater Pickens until 8:45 p.m. Those storms offered winds up to 40 mph and also brought along that pesky pea-sized hail. Areas that bore the brunt included Easley, Clemson, Central, and, of course, Pickens, along with Liberty, Norris, and Six Mile.
With gusty winds that could easily send tree limbs crashing down and scattering unsecured objects, residents were on high alert for potential **minor hail damage** as the storms rolled through. It’s always wise to be prepared and stay safe during such unpredictable weather events.
Wrapping it Up
To wrap up, if you’re in Pickens County, keep those weather apps handy, stay aware of the sky conditions, and remember that when it comes to severe weather, preparedness is key! Hold tight to your loved ones, find shelter when storms approach, and we hope you stay safe and dry during these dramatic weather shifts. Keep an eye out for sunny days ahead; they’re sure to be back soon!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Anderson, SC
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Hit Upstate SC and Northeast GA
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Oconee County
Storm Alert Hits Greenville and Spartanburg: Safety Tips
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Sweep Across South Carolina and North Georgia
Severe Thunderstorms Cause Devastation in Metro Atlanta
Severe Thunderstorms Affect Pickens County Residents
A Stormy Night Ahead for Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina
Severe Thunderstorms and Flash Flood Warnings in Lancaster County
Thunderstorm Alerts Sound an Alarm in South Carolina
Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- AL.com
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Fox Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
Mays Contracting
